It’s summer break … but not for CAALA

One of my goals as president is to have some unique, inspirational, and flat-out fun events for our members. So far, so good! For those who missed it, here’s a recap of some past events, and a preview of what’s coming up.

Reptile Seminar on April 27

Over 275 CAALA members attended this three-hour seminar at the Omni Hotel in April. The Reptile strategy is one that many plaintiff attorneys use, and defense attorneys have countered the strategy with calculated attacks. The seminar educated us on these new defense strategies and how to maneuver around them.

Joint Litigation Summit held May 25

We had another huge turnout (nearly 300!) for this event − which will become an annual affair. CAALA partnered with the Association of Southern California Defense Counsel to put on a program that focused on civility, the expedited jury trial program (EJT) and the Personal Injury Hub procedures.

Judge Carolyn Kuhl, the Presiding Judge of LASC, reported on the status of the courts. Judge Dan Buckley (Assistant Presiding Judge of LASC) spoke to the group about the importance of civility. Judge Kevin Brazile (Presiding Judge of Civil) spoke about the PI Hub. All of the PI Hub judges were on the panel and each discussed various procedures for the Hub. Glenn Barger, the President of ASCDC, and I want to ensure this program continues each year (with different topics, of course). You won’t want to miss this one next year.

Brian Panish Roast on June 30

Just a few days ago, Brian got roasted. What a night. It was a spectacular venue at the Beverly Hills Hotel and included Cedric the Entertainer as the master of ceremonies. I think Brian might still be recovering from it all. For a lawyer who has helped so many, and has had such tremendous success over many years, this was a fitting tribute to not only honor (and to poke fun at) Brian, but to also raise money for CAALA’s public education arm, the Consumer Attorneys Public Education Foundation. Way to be a good sport, Brian!

Kickoff Party for AAJ Convention July 21

If you haven’t heard, the American Association of Justice’s annual convention is right here in Los Angeles this year: July 22-25. Lawyers from all over the country will attend and hear from top plaintiffs’ lawyers from New York to Texas to California.

To get this party started, CAALA is co-hosting a “Welcome to LA” kickoff party with CAOC and AAJ on Thursday night, July 21, at The Engine Company, in downtown LA. Brian Kabateck will turn his building into an indoor-outdoor party scene. This is a great opportunity to meet interesting lawyers from other states, and to share experiences – and a few drinks.

CAALA Vegas

And I don’t have to remind you about CAALA Vegas, September 1-4.

What a summer!